Mentorship in Mainstreaming Workshop - ELCM​

For the past three years, ELCM has been developing and implementing the mainstreaming concept for HIV & AIDS, TB, malaria, gender, and development principles in their congregations. From 15-17 September 2015 at Lilongwe Cathedral, Deans and their church leaders met to review the progress and programmes from the past three years, and discuss the way forward for the church.

Bishop Joseph Bvumbwe gave opening remarks that encouraged the participants to not lose their urgency in addressing HIV & AIDS. He also drew out examples of how Jesus does not condemn others, so they should not waste their time condemning others either. Bishop Bvumbwe inspired the participants to draw strength from the time spent at this workshop, and urged them to use the time wisely.

From the review of the baseline survey conducted in 2014 at Monkey Bay, Malawi, the results showed there has been a large improvement in knowledge of prevention and a decrease in stigma surrounding HIV & AIDS. But the church has not focused on issues surrounding TB, and the results of the survey confirm that there is more work to be done in that area. The participants also reviewed their own basic knowledge of the concept of mainstreaming so that the LUCSA team could make sure that everyone is at the same level of knowledge moving forward.

Another session reviewed the workplace policy for the ELCM, and opened a discussion for the pastors and church leaders to clarify their questions on the policy. Rev. Alick Msuku, ELCM HIV & AIDS coordinator, also presented the strategic plan for ELCM for the next five years. The aim coincides with the UNAIDS goal of 90-90-90: 90% of PLWHIV and others know their status, 90% of the known HIV positives are initiated on ART, 90% of patients be on ART are retained in care and support initiatives.

On the last day, the participants explored how their church can utilise resource mobilisation, and plan the way forward for the ELCM as a whole. The Deans and their church leaders will return to their home parishes and deanery’s with fresh ideas of mainstreaming projects. The workshop concluded with closing remarks from Bishop Bvumbwe, and participants received their certificates for completing all of the sessions of the Mentorship in Mainstreaming Workshop.